Legal claims defining the scope of protection. Each claim is shown in both the original legal language and a plain English translation.
1. An electronic device comprising: a casing; and a keyboard assembly housed at least partially within the casing, the keyboard assembly comprising: a printed circuit board (PCB) positioned within the casing; a membrane layer attached to the PCB; a switch housing affixed directly to the membrane layer or to the PCB; and a dome switch coupled directly to the membrane layer.
This invention relates to electronic devices with integrated keyboard assemblies, particularly addressing the challenge of improving durability and responsiveness in keyboard mechanisms. The device includes a casing that houses a keyboard assembly, which comprises a printed circuit board (PCB) positioned within the casing. A membrane layer is attached to the PCB, providing electrical connectivity and structural support. A switch housing is affixed directly to either the membrane layer or the PCB, ensuring stable mechanical alignment. The keyboard assembly further includes a dome switch, which is coupled directly to the membrane layer, enabling tactile feedback and reliable actuation. The dome switch is designed to deform under pressure, creating an electrical connection with the PCB through the membrane layer. The direct coupling of the dome switch to the membrane layer and the secure attachment of the switch housing enhance the keyboard's durability and responsiveness while maintaining a compact design. This configuration simplifies assembly and reduces potential points of failure, improving overall device reliability. The invention is particularly useful in portable electronic devices where space efficiency and robust input mechanisms are critical.
2. The electronic device of claim 1 , wherein an anisotropic conductive film is bonded to the PCB and the membrane layer is attached to the PCB by the anisotropic conductive film.
An electronic device includes a printed circuit board (PCB) with a membrane layer attached to it. The membrane layer is secured to the PCB using an anisotropic conductive film, which provides electrical conductivity in specific directions while mechanically bonding the components. This configuration ensures reliable electrical connections between the PCB and the membrane layer, which may include flexible or rigid elements. The anisotropic conductive film allows for precise control of conductivity paths, reducing signal interference and improving performance. The membrane layer may include conductive traces, sensors, or other electronic components that interface with the PCB through the conductive film. This design is particularly useful in applications requiring compact, durable, and high-performance electronic assemblies, such as touchscreens, flexible displays, or wearable devices. The use of an anisotropic conductive film simplifies assembly by eliminating the need for soldering or other complex bonding methods, while maintaining strong mechanical and electrical connections. The invention addresses challenges in integrating flexible or rigid components with PCBs, ensuring both structural integrity and reliable signal transmission.
3. The electronic device of claim 1 , wherein a film electrically couples the PCB and the membrane layer.
This invention relates to electronic devices with flexible or rigid printed circuit boards (PCBs) and membrane layers, addressing the challenge of reliable electrical coupling between these components. The device includes a PCB and a membrane layer, where the membrane layer is positioned adjacent to the PCB. A conductive film is used to electrically couple the PCB and the membrane layer, ensuring signal transmission or power delivery between them. The film may be a flexible or rigid material, such as a conductive adhesive, anisotropic conductive film (ACF), or other suitable material, depending on the application. The membrane layer may serve as a user interface, sensor, or protective layer, and the film ensures consistent electrical contact despite potential mechanical stress or environmental factors. The invention improves durability and performance in devices where the PCB and membrane layer must maintain electrical connectivity under varying conditions.
4. The electronic device of claim 1 , wherein the membrane layer comprises one of: a single membrane sheet substantially covering the PCB; or a group of membrane pads attached to the PCB.
The invention relates to electronic devices with improved structural integrity and environmental protection, particularly for printed circuit boards (PCBs). A common problem in electronic devices is the susceptibility of PCBs to damage from physical impacts, moisture, and contaminants, which can degrade performance or cause failure. The invention addresses this by incorporating a membrane layer over the PCB to enhance durability and protection. The membrane layer can be implemented in two configurations. In one configuration, it consists of a single membrane sheet that substantially covers the entire PCB, providing uniform protection across the surface. In the other configuration, the membrane layer is composed of multiple membrane pads attached to specific areas of the PCB, allowing for targeted protection where it is most needed. Both configurations help shield the PCB from external environmental factors while maintaining functionality. The membrane layer is designed to be flexible yet robust, ensuring that it can withstand mechanical stress without compromising the underlying electronic components. This solution is particularly useful in devices where the PCB is exposed to harsh conditions, such as industrial equipment, outdoor electronics, or portable devices subjected to frequent handling. By integrating the membrane layer, the invention improves the longevity and reliability of electronic devices while maintaining their operational efficiency.
5. The electronic device of claim 1 , wherein the membrane layer is formed from a substantially flexible, electrically conductive material.
This invention relates to electronic devices incorporating a flexible, electrically conductive membrane layer. The device addresses the challenge of integrating flexible, conductive materials into electronic components while maintaining structural integrity and functionality. The membrane layer is designed to be highly flexible, allowing the device to bend or conform to various shapes without compromising electrical conductivity. This flexibility is particularly useful in applications requiring durable, adaptable electronic components, such as wearable electronics, flexible displays, or bendable sensors. The conductive material used in the membrane ensures reliable electrical performance even under mechanical stress, such as repeated bending or stretching. The device may include additional layers or components that interact with the membrane, such as insulating layers, substrates, or electronic circuits, to form a complete functional system. The combination of flexibility and conductivity in the membrane layer enables the device to operate effectively in dynamic environments where traditional rigid materials would fail. This innovation is particularly valuable in industries where lightweight, conformable electronics are required, such as medical devices, consumer electronics, and industrial sensors.
6. A keyboard assembly comprising: a printed circuit board (PCB); a single membrane sheet substantially covering the PCB; a conductive adhesive bonding the single membrane sheet to the PCB; and a group of dome switches attached to the single membrane sheet, wherein the single membrane sheet comprises an electrical contact in electrical communication with the PCB.
This invention relates to keyboard assemblies, specifically addressing the need for a simplified, cost-effective, and reliable keyboard structure. Traditional keyboards often use multiple layers of membranes or complex switch mechanisms, leading to increased manufacturing costs and potential reliability issues. The invention provides a keyboard assembly with a streamlined design that reduces components while maintaining functionality. The assembly includes a printed circuit board (PCB) that serves as the base for electrical connections. A single membrane sheet is bonded directly to the PCB using a conductive adhesive, eliminating the need for multiple layers. This membrane sheet covers the PCB substantially and includes an electrical contact that ensures proper electrical communication between the membrane and the PCB. Attached to the membrane sheet is a group of dome switches, which provide tactile feedback when pressed. The dome switches are positioned such that when actuated, they create an electrical connection through the membrane sheet to the PCB, registering a keypress. By using a single membrane sheet and conductive adhesive, the assembly reduces material and assembly complexity compared to traditional multi-layer designs. The design ensures reliable electrical contact while simplifying manufacturing processes. This approach is particularly useful in applications where cost efficiency and durability are priorities, such as in consumer electronics or industrial keyboards.
7. The keyboard assembly of claim 6 , wherein the conductive adhesive is a pressure sensitive adhesive.
A keyboard assembly includes a flexible circuit board with conductive traces and a key switch mechanism. The key switch mechanism has a movable contact element that engages with the flexible circuit board to complete an electrical circuit when a key is pressed. The assembly also includes a conductive adhesive that electrically connects the movable contact element to the flexible circuit board. The conductive adhesive is a pressure-sensitive adhesive, meaning it forms an electrical connection when pressure is applied, such as when a key is pressed. This design ensures reliable electrical contact between the movable contact element and the flexible circuit board, improving the durability and responsiveness of the keyboard. The pressure-sensitive adhesive simplifies assembly by eliminating the need for additional mechanical fasteners or complex alignment mechanisms, reducing manufacturing costs and improving reliability. The keyboard assembly is particularly useful in portable electronic devices where space and weight are critical factors.
8. The keyboard assembly of claim 6 , wherein the group of dome switches is adhered to the single membrane sheet.
A keyboard assembly includes a group of dome switches and a single membrane sheet. The dome switches are adhered to the membrane sheet, forming a unified structure. The membrane sheet provides electrical connectivity and structural support for the dome switches, ensuring reliable actuation and durability. This design simplifies manufacturing by reducing the number of separate components and assembly steps. The adhered configuration enhances stability, preventing misalignment or detachment during use. The keyboard assembly is suitable for various electronic devices, including computers, laptops, and peripherals, where compact and reliable input mechanisms are required. The use of a single membrane sheet with adhered dome switches improves consistency in key response and reduces the risk of mechanical failure over time. This approach addresses challenges in traditional keyboard designs, such as complex assembly processes and potential wear from repeated key presses. The integrated structure ensures consistent performance while maintaining a low-profile design.
9. The keyboard assembly of claim 6 , wherein: the electrical contact comprises a group of electrical contacts; and a set of two distinct electrical contacts of the group of electrical contacts are formed below each dome switch of the group of dome switches.
A keyboard assembly includes a plurality of dome switches arranged in a grid, where each dome switch is associated with a key on the keyboard. The assembly further includes a plurality of electrical contacts positioned below the dome switches. Each dome switch is associated with a set of two distinct electrical contacts, meaning that for every dome switch, there are two separate electrical contacts positioned beneath it. These electrical contacts are configured to establish an electrical connection when the dome switch is actuated, such as when a key is pressed. The use of two distinct electrical contacts per dome switch may improve reliability or functionality, such as by providing redundant contact points or enabling additional input detection capabilities. The keyboard assembly may be part of a larger input device, such as a computer keyboard or a keypad, and may be designed for use in various electronic devices where reliable key actuation is required. The arrangement ensures that each key press results in a consistent and detectable electrical signal, enhancing the overall performance of the keyboard.
10. The keyboard assembly of claim 9 , wherein a single dome switch of the group of dome switches contacts one of the set of two distinct electrical contacts when the single dome switch is in a compressed state.
A keyboard assembly includes a plurality of dome switches arranged in a grid pattern, where each dome switch is positioned over a set of two distinct electrical contacts. The dome switches are configured to selectively connect the electrical contacts when compressed, enabling key actuation. The assembly further includes a flexible membrane layer positioned between the dome switches and the electrical contacts, where the membrane layer has openings aligned with the dome switches to allow compression. The dome switches are arranged such that each switch contacts only one of the two electrical contacts when compressed, ensuring a single electrical connection per key press. This design prevents unintended short circuits or multiple contact activations, improving reliability and accuracy in key detection. The assembly may also include a rigid support structure to maintain the alignment of the dome switches and electrical contacts, ensuring consistent performance over repeated use. The keyboard assembly is particularly useful in electronic devices requiring durable and precise input mechanisms, such as laptops, tablets, or embedded systems. The invention addresses the problem of unreliable key presses in traditional membrane or mechanical keyboards by providing a structured, single-contact activation mechanism for each key.
11. A keyboard assembly comprising: a printed circuit board (PCB) including a group of conductive pads; a group of membrane pads, each of the group of membrane pads including a conductive spacer that is adhered directly to a corresponding one of the group of conductive pads; and a group of dome switches, each of the group of dome switches coupled directly to a corresponding one of the group of membrane pads.
A keyboard assembly includes a printed circuit board (PCB) with conductive pads, membrane pads, and dome switches. The PCB contains a group of conductive pads that serve as electrical contact points. Each membrane pad in the group has a conductive spacer that is directly adhered to a corresponding conductive pad on the PCB, ensuring electrical connectivity. The membrane pads provide a flexible layer that supports the dome switches. Each dome switch in the group is directly coupled to a corresponding membrane pad, forming a complete key switch structure. When a key is pressed, the dome switch collapses, pressing the conductive spacer against the conductive pad on the PCB to complete an electrical circuit. This design ensures reliable key actuation and electrical contact. The assembly simplifies manufacturing by directly adhering the conductive spacer to the PCB pad and coupling the dome switch to the membrane pad, reducing assembly steps and potential points of failure. The keyboard assembly is suitable for various input devices, including mechanical keyboards, where durability and responsiveness are critical. The direct adhesion and coupling methods enhance structural integrity and performance while maintaining a compact form factor.
12. The keyboard assembly of claim 11 , wherein: each of the group of membrane pads comprises: an outer conductive ring; and an inner conductive ring within the outer conductive ring; and the conductive spacer separates, and is concentric with, the outer conductive ring and the inner conductive ring.
A keyboard assembly includes a group of membrane pads arranged in a matrix, where each membrane pad has an outer conductive ring and an inner conductive ring. The inner conductive ring is positioned within the outer conductive ring, and a conductive spacer is placed between them, maintaining separation while ensuring concentric alignment. The membrane pads are supported by a base layer, and a flexible membrane layer is positioned above the membrane pads. The flexible membrane layer includes a plurality of key caps, each aligned with a corresponding membrane pad. When a key cap is pressed, the flexible membrane layer deforms, causing the inner conductive ring to contact the conductive spacer, establishing an electrical connection. The conductive spacer is electrically connected to a ground plane, allowing the keyboard assembly to detect key presses by monitoring changes in electrical conductivity. This design improves durability and responsiveness by ensuring consistent contact between conductive elements during key actuation. The assembly may also include a support structure to enhance mechanical stability and prevent misalignment of the membrane pads.
13. The keyboard assembly of claim 12 , wherein each of the group of conductive pads comprises: an outer conductive portion in contact with the outer conductive ring of a corresponding one of the group of membrane pads; and an inner conductive portion spaced apart from and surrounded by the outer conductive portion, the inner conductive portion separated from the inner conductive ring and the conductive spacer of the membrane pad when a corresponding dome switch of the group of dome switches is in an uncompressed state.
This invention relates to a keyboard assembly with improved electrical contact mechanisms. The assembly addresses the problem of unreliable or inconsistent key actuation in membrane keyboards, where conductive pads and membrane pads must align precisely to ensure proper electrical contact when keys are pressed. The assembly includes a group of dome switches, each associated with a membrane pad and a conductive pad. Each membrane pad has an outer conductive ring and an inner conductive ring separated by a conductive spacer. Each conductive pad has an outer conductive portion that contacts the outer conductive ring of the corresponding membrane pad. Additionally, each conductive pad includes an inner conductive portion that is spaced apart from and surrounded by the outer conductive portion. When a key is not pressed, the inner conductive portion remains separated from the inner conductive ring and the conductive spacer of the membrane pad. Upon key actuation, the dome switch compresses, bringing the inner conductive portion into contact with the inner conductive ring, completing the electrical circuit. This design ensures reliable electrical contact while preventing unintended short circuits when keys are not pressed. The assembly improves durability and responsiveness in keyboard mechanisms.
14. The keyboard assembly of claim 13 , wherein the conductive spacer of the membrane pad is in electrical communication with the outer conductive portion and the inner conductive portion of the conductive pad when the corresponding dome switch is in a compressed state.
A keyboard assembly includes a membrane pad with a conductive spacer and a conductive pad having an outer conductive portion and an inner conductive portion. The conductive spacer is positioned to establish electrical communication between the outer and inner conductive portions of the conductive pad when a corresponding dome switch is compressed. This configuration ensures reliable electrical connectivity during key actuation, addressing issues of intermittent or failed connections in traditional keyboard designs. The assembly may also include a keycap, a scissor mechanism, and a printed circuit board (PCB) with conductive traces. The scissor mechanism supports the keycap and guides its vertical movement, while the dome switch provides tactile feedback and electrical switching. The conductive pad, positioned on the PCB, interfaces with the dome switch to complete circuits when pressed. The conductive spacer ensures consistent contact between the outer and inner conductive portions of the pad, enhancing durability and responsiveness. This design is particularly useful in mechanical keyboards where precise and repeatable keypress detection is critical. The invention improves upon prior art by reducing signal loss and increasing the lifespan of the keyboard assembly.
15. The keyboard assembly of claim 11 , wherein each of the group of membrane pads further comprises: an upper portion comprising a first electrical contact; and a lower portion comprising two distinct electrical contacts; wherein the lower portion is spaced apart from the upper portion when a corresponding dome switch of the group of dome switches is in an uncompressed state.
A keyboard assembly includes a group of membrane pads and a corresponding group of dome switches. Each membrane pad has an upper portion with a first electrical contact and a lower portion with two distinct electrical contacts. The lower portion is spaced apart from the upper portion when the corresponding dome switch is uncompressed. When the dome switch is compressed, the lower portion moves toward the upper portion, bringing the two distinct electrical contacts into contact with the first electrical contact, completing a circuit. This design ensures reliable electrical connections during key presses while maintaining separation when keys are not pressed, preventing unintended activations. The assembly is used in electronic devices requiring durable, responsive keypads, such as laptops, calculators, or industrial control panels. The spaced-apart configuration in the uncompressed state reduces wear and extends the lifespan of the keyboard by minimizing contact friction when keys are idle. The distinct electrical contacts in the lower portion allow for precise signal differentiation, improving input accuracy. This structure is particularly useful in environments where durability and reliability are critical, such as in ruggedized devices or high-usage applications.
16. The keyboard assembly of claim 15 , wherein the first electrical contact of the upper portion is displaced toward and contacts the two distinct electrical contacts of the lower portion when the corresponding dome switch is compressed.
A keyboard assembly includes a plurality of dome switches arranged in a grid pattern, each dome switch having an upper portion and a lower portion. The upper portion includes a first electrical contact, while the lower portion includes two distinct electrical contacts. When a dome switch is compressed, the first electrical contact of the upper portion moves downward and makes contact with the two distinct electrical contacts of the lower portion, establishing an electrical connection. This design ensures reliable switching by providing multiple contact points, reducing the risk of misalignment or failure during repeated use. The assembly may also include a flexible membrane or circuit board beneath the dome switches to support the electrical connections. The dome switches are typically arranged in a matrix configuration, allowing for efficient key actuation and compact design. The assembly may further include a keycap mechanism that transfers downward force from a keypress to the dome switch, ensuring consistent tactile feedback and durability. This configuration is commonly used in mechanical keyboards to enhance responsiveness and longevity.
17. The keyboard assembly of claim 15 , wherein each upper portion is sealed to each corresponding lower portion at a perimeter of each of the group of membrane pads.
A keyboard assembly includes a plurality of membrane pads arranged in a grid, each membrane pad having an upper portion and a lower portion. The upper portion is sealed to the corresponding lower portion along the perimeter of each membrane pad. The membrane pads are positioned between a top plate and a base plate, with the top plate having openings aligned with the membrane pads. Each membrane pad includes a switch mechanism that activates when pressure is applied to the upper portion, causing the upper portion to deform and engage with the switch mechanism. The switch mechanism generates an electrical signal corresponding to the pressed key. The sealing between the upper and lower portions prevents contamination, such as dust or liquids, from entering the interior of the membrane pad, ensuring reliable operation. The assembly may also include a flexible circuit board connected to the switch mechanisms for transmitting the electrical signals to a processing unit. The design improves durability and resistance to environmental factors while maintaining tactile feedback for the user.
Unknown
September 24, 2019
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